NYS Music 2024

Category: Genres

  • Meet Kale, New Paltz’s Latest Jam Band Export

    Hailing from the city of New Paltz, indie trio Kale is the latest outfit to make its way into the scene.

    kale new paltz
    Kale • Jack Salzman – bass/vocals • Sam Kirschner – drums • Brendan Bartow – keys/vocals

    For the last two years, Kale has been cementing themselves as a live band fans will never forget. With a unique combination of indie rock, pop, and electronica, the trio has dedicated themselves to the music that brought them all together in the first place.

    Kale’s musical influences come from an array of bands – their love of improvisational live music came from growing up listening to the Grateful Dead and Phish. Jazz artists such as Dexter Gordon and Dave Brubeck, while the songwriting and danceable electronic/indie vibe stems from bands such as MGMT, Empire of the Sun, M83, Bombay Bicycle Club, and the Killers, are all highly influential on the band’s musical style.

    Kale is made up of three incredibly close friends; Jack Salzman (bass/vocals), Brendan Bartow (keys/vocals), and Sam Kirschner (drums). The trio formed amidst the plethora of outfits that emerged from the college town, which was the perfect atmosphere to cement their electrifying and fun-loving performance style. They released their first studio single, “Everybody’s Falling,” in October 2023, followed by “Pave the Way” in May 2024, and were met with almost immediate praise from fans who have been waiting since their 2022 live debut.

    Kale’s music is meant to emulate exactly that of their environment: the feeling of a fun and exciting night out with friends in a tangible, musical form. With their focus on the performance aspect, combined with their stellar musicianship and creative influences, it’s no surprise that Kale became a regular topic of conversation within the college student community.

    Within the last two years of Kale’s emergence, their live shows have garnered a reputation as a nonstop thrill. Their inspiration from electronica music is very much alive and displayed in their shows, demonstrated through strobe lights, elaborate visuals, and contagious energy sure to make any crowd dance. Kale is no stranger to diversity within their music, either, keeping crowds entertained with Bartow and Salzman’s characteristically indie-style vocals.

    Kale performing at the Toyota Music Den Stage at Mt. Snow in Dover, VT

    In the early days of the band, Kale wasted no time in putting themselves out there and taking over the stage. The band has opened for notable indie acts such as The Disco Biscuits, Eggy, the Q-tip Bandits, and Twiddle, and even dipped their toes onto festival stages like the Catskill Mountain Jubilee, Summer Jam, and Circus of Life.

    While the band is working on their debut album, it is clear that Kale’s party days in New Paltz are far from over. Kale has no plans on stopping their fantastic tour de force, with a new single, “The Beautiful Game,” coming on August 30 and a debut EP coming on November 1, featuring eight original studio tracks. In the meantime, the trio is supporting Dopapod at Bearsville Theater in Woodstock, for their final tour on September 13. Tickets are available here.

    To check out Kale’s music, visit this link. Stay tuned for more updates, because when Kale is in town, the party never stops.

  • Sound Frontier Releases Bluesey New Single “Cat Callin’”

    Blues/Rock power trio Sound Frontier continue to push boundaries with their new single, “Cat Callin’”, featuring Sapphire Monet. Showcasing their signature blend of blues energy and rock finesse, Sound Frontier continues to pay homage to their roots, drawing inspiration from legends like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Gary Clark Jr., and Eric Gales.

    Sound Frontier Releases Bluesey New Single "Cat Callin'"

    Based in New York City, Sound Frontier offers a classic blues-rock sound. With Ali Bishop on guitar, Ivan Hardy on bass, and Desmond “Chunkz” Morrison on drums, the band has pushed boundaries with each release, and “Cat Callin’” is no exception.

    Sound Frontier’s single seamlessly combines the intensity of hard rock with the intimacy and emotion of blues. Ali Bishop described his love for “Cat Callin’,” saying, “It’s a song that combines our love for blues and rock with Sapphire’s incredible vocals, resulting in a track that’s both gritty and soulful.”

    Sound Frontier Releases Bluesey New Single "Cat Callin'"

    Classic rock/blues instrumentation receives a new twist on “Cat Callin’,” with energetic and powerful instrumentals. “Cat Callin’” can serve as a women’s empowerment anthem, with tough yet beutiful vocal performances and dynamic instrumentals.

    Soulful guitar riffs, resonant bass lines, and powerful drumming are hallmarks of Sound Frontier’s sound, and are evident in their newest single, with the group well known for their energetic performances and engaging stage presence.

    The official music video for “Cat Callin’” is available below, and updates are available on the band’s Instagram.

  • Jazz in the City Visits Historic South Side Syracuse

    The August Jazz in the City concerts returns to the historic south side of Syracuse for a celebration that has become a long tradition. The Blacklites, a local powerhouse soul band formed over 50 years ago, will appear for the 20th time at Jazz in the City, at the same Dunk & Bright furniture location on South Salina Street.

    Mayor Ben Walsh will be on hand along with other dignitaries to award the band with a proclamation recognizing their half century-plus as an urban cultural resource. Walsh said, “The Blacklites have been a staple in the Syracuse music scene for over 40 years. I’m thrilled that they continue to bring high-energy performances for listeners of all ages to Jazz in the City and look forward to recognizing them this year with a proclamation at what will be another can’t-miss event.”

    1Accord Line Dance, a growing “dance for health” group founded by Kristle Lemmones in 2010, will open the show. All will be invited to dance with them until the Blacklites appear on the Leadsafe CNY stage at 7 p.m. on August 8th, to perform a two-hour concert.

    The Jazz in the City “concert fair” events take place throughout the summer in neighborhoods across the city. As a mobile public health effort unique to American cities, they present America’s music surrounded by multiple healthcare and family service providers, plus food and craft vendors.

    Title sponsor Syracuse Community Health provides a team of healthcare professionals as the centerpiece of a healthcare village. As an incentive to be screened and interviewed for individual and family health needs, those going through the SCH tent will receive $5 New York State Lottery scratch-off tickets. Additionally, everyone attending always receives free “goodie bags” filled with information provided by the attending healthcare village providers.

    An audience of over 1,000 is expected at the concert, which has always been one of the biggest draws of the series. It’s become one of the biggest family-friendly social events of the summer, thanks to the generosity of the Bright family, and of course our many other sponsors, led by SCH and Community Bank.”

    Don’t miss Jazz in the City tonight in Syracuse with The Blacklites.

  • Gorillafest Takes Over Coney Island Amphitheater with Unforgettable Performances and Iconic Headliner

    On Sunday, August 4th, the Coney Island Amphitheater hosted Gorillafest, a free music festival hosted by Coney Island’s own rapper NEMS, captivated thousands of fans. Part of the City Parks Foundation’s SummerStage series, this event was a tribute to the vibrant local culture, bringing together an eclectic mix of artists for a day of unforgettable performances.

    Nems

    NEMS, renowned for his catchphrases “Don’t Ever Disrespect Me!” and “Bing Bong!”, hosted the festival with charisma and flair. Signed to Goliath Records by Paul Rosenberg, NEMS has proven himself to be more than an internet sensation, showcasing his talents as a formidable rapper and an engaging host.

    Tony Touch

    The festival kicked off with a dynamic DJ set by the legendary Tony Touch, setting an energetic tone for the day. Following Tony Touch, the podcast “Outside with Gorilla Nems” took the stage, featuring NEMS alongside Pas, Six the Don, Hubert Ramos, and Christina Boykin. Their lively 20-minute session, filled with humor and candid conversation, entertained the audience and provided a glimpse into NEMS’s larger-than-life personality.

    Statik Selektah

    Next, DJ Statik Selektah took over, delivering an electrifying set and bringing out special guests Termanology and rising female rapper Billy B, who both delivered standout performances. DJ Drewski then kept the momentum going, thrilling the crowd with appearances by Consequence, Juelz Santana, and Grafh.

    Nems

    As the evening progressed, Scram Jones stepped up as the final DJ of the night, his set building anticipation for the headline act. Scram Jones’s performance set the perfect stage for NEMS, who performed several of his hits, including the viral anthem “Bing Bong.” The crowd roared with excitement as NEMS delivered a high-energy set, demonstrating why he is a beloved figure in the local music scene.

    Pharoahe Monch

    Throughout the night, an impressive lineup of hip-hop talent took the stage, each adding their unique touch to the festival. Capone, Cory Gunz, Ron Browz, Justina Valentine, Masta Ace, Smif-N-Wessun, and Pharoahe Monch all made appearances, keeping the audience engaged and energized.

    Bun B

    The highlight of the night was a surprise performance by Bun B, who brought his southern rap style to the New York crowd, adding an unexpected and thrilling twist to the festival. The grand finale came with the appearance of the legendary Ghostface Killah. As the headliner, Ghostface delivered a powerful and captivating performance, closing out Gorillafest on a high note

    Ghostface Killah

    Gorillafest was more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of community, culture, and the enduring spirit of Coney Island. Thanks to NEMS, the City Parks Foundation, and SummerStage, fans were treated to an incredible day of free entertainment and iconic performances, cementing Gorillafest as a must-attend event in the heart of Brooklyn.

  • Five for Fighting to Embark on String Quartet Tour This Fall

    Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Five for Fighting is going on a show-stopping String Quartet tour this upcoming September and October. Joining him on tour is a quartet of renowned stings players with heavy experience on Broadway and as touring musicians, showcasing decades of Five for Fighting’s beloved music.

    Five for Fighting String Quartet Tour

    The mastermind behind Five for Fighting, John Ondrasik will bring his music to life on a whole new level with the extravagant ensemble accompanying him on his forthcoming tour. On violin is Katie Kresek, a Tony winner and co-orchestrator of Moulin Rouge! The Musical. Melissa Tong, who toured with Post Malone will also join Ondrasik’s show on violin.

    The rest of the quartet includes Chris Cardona playing viola. Cardona has been a part of countless Broadway orchestras. Lastly, cellist, Peter Sachon contributes to music all over New York City. Having not only played on Broadway and on Broadway artists’ records but also in classical, jazz, and rock ensembles, Sachon continuously proves that he can flourish in any genre.

    Even without the quartet, Ondrasik’s band is monumental. Made up of drummer Randy Cooke (Mick Jagger, Ringo Starr, Dave Stewart), guitarist Peter Thorn (Chris Cornell, Melissa Etheridge, Don Henley), and bassist Whynot Jansveld (Matchbox Twenty, The Wallflowers, Sara Bareilles), audiences are undeniably in for a show.

    To share the stage with such incredible musicians every night is a gift that keeps giving.  Such an intimate format allows me to share the stories behind the songs, and the adventures along the way.

    John Ondrasik

    Attendees will get to indulge in six albums, and many hits such as “100 Years” and “Superman (It’s Not Easy),” which are now considered classics. By bringing new light to these songs, Ondrasik can present them more profoundly than ever before.

    To purchase tickets for the upcoming string quartet tour visit fiveforfighting.com/tour

    FIVE FOR FIGHTING AUGUST FULL BAND TOUR DATES:

    Tuesday, August 6- Ardmore Music Hall in Ardmore, PA

    Thursday, August 8- Electric City in Buffalo, NY

    Friday, August 9- House of Blues, Cambridge Room in Cleveland, OH

    Saturday, August 10-St. Andrew’s Hall in Detroit, MI

    Sunday, August 11- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, MI

    Tuesday, August 13- Lincoln Theatre in Washington, DC

    Wednesday, August 14- Oceanfront Concerts Series, 24th Street Park in Virginia Beach, VA

    Friday, August 16- Cabot Theater in Beverly, MA

    Saturday, August 17- The Wolf Den At Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, CT (Free Show)

    Sunday, August 18- Tarrytown Music Hall in Tarrytown, NY

    FIVE FOR FIGHTING SEPTEMBER + OCTOBER STRING QUARTET TOUR:

    Thursday, September 26- Homer, NY at Center for the Arts of Homer

    Friday, September 27 Saratoga Springs, NY at Universal Preservation Hall

    Saturday, September 28- Corning, NY at Corning Museum Of Glass

    Sunday, September 29- Bethel, NY at The Event Gallery at Bethel Woods

    Tuesday, October 1- Oneonta, NY at Foothills Performing Arts Center

    Thursday, October 3- Nashua, NH at Nashua Center for the Arts

    Friday, October 4- Laconia, NH at The Colonial Theatre Laconia

    Saturday, October 5- Bethlehem, NH at The Colonial Theatre

    Sunday, October 6- Waterville, ME at Waterville Opera House

    Tuesday, October 8- Newport, RI at The JPT Film & Event Center

    Wednesday, October 9- Red Bank, NJ at Count Basie Center for the Arts – The Vogel

    Thursday, October 10- Port Washington, NY at Landmark on Main Street

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-AnC_4sXQ8

  • JAM: A Documentary Chronicling the Iconic Phish Traffic Jam, Released for 20th Anniversary

    JAM, a documentary about the well-known 2004 traffic jam that happened due to masses of phans driving through Vermont to catch the at-the-time last Phish show ever, was released to the public on August 5, nearly 20 years after the legendary event.

    Phish Traffic Jam

    Releasing almost exactly 20 years after Phish’s farewell show in Vermont, JAM is a 30-minute documentary short film chronicling the epic 2004 traffic jam in Vermont, where tens of thousands of Phish fans struggled through days of gridlock, resulting in one of the most profound traffic jams in history.

    When Phish announced that their August 2004 shows in Coventry, Vermont, would be their last ever, it was a no-brainer to expect record levels of fan turnout. What wasn’t expected, though, was the severe rain that ravaged Vermont throughout the weeks leading up to the shows. Even with the rain, thousands and thousands of fans still made the trip to Coventry, but another issue arose: those making the trip directly caused one of the most iconic traffic jams ever. The overwhelming number of cars backing up Interstate 91 eventually reached a dead halt, which led to many fans simply leaving their cars on the side of the road and trekking to the venue.

    For those who were able to get there, the grounds were so covered in deep and thick mud, making everyday tasks like eating and cleaning oneself a massive challenge. But despite all of the adversities Phishheads faced, thousands still showed out, making one of the most iconic weekends not only in rock history, but in all of music history.

    Photo © John Crouch

    JAM features on-camera interviews with attending fans, including Aron Ralston (renowned outdoorsman and motivational speaker), retired Vermont State Police Seargent Bruce Melendy (key figure in managing the crisis), concert promoter Dave Werlin, spokesman Adam Lewis and Matt Maxwell of Maxwell’s Neighborhood Farm (concert venue).

    The film is based on extensive footage recorded by Alex Daltas, a longtime Phish fan since age 16. His
    video footage is believed to be the most comprehensive account of the traffic jam, enhanced by
    retrospective interviews and archival footage collected over two decades. Witness history’s most powerful traffic story, taking you back to a time before smartphones when the love of music burned brightest.

    JAM debuted with advance screenings at the Coventry Community Center on August 2nd and 3rd and released fully to the public on August 5. JAM is available to buy and rent here.

  • In Focus: Rochester’s Pan Afrikan Festival

    The 16th Annual Pan Afrikan Festival at the Highland Bowl in Rochester hosted by A.B.O.V.E. (Achieving and Bringing Our Vision to Excellence).

    Throughout the day local independent artists performed, like Baaba Lin, Dane Jah & Jamal Younglood and Sould of the City.

    The headliner for the day for Will Holton a smooth jazz saxophonist from Buffalo. He had a special guest come out and join him, Billboard Chart topping artist Judah Sealy. The played long after the sun set to end a great day of music.

  • Dogs In A Pile Announce Fall Tour Dates

    Asbury Park, New Jersey’s Dogs In A Pile have announced a slate of tour dates for the Fall. The tour begins with two shows at Philadelphia’s Brooklyn Bowl on October 25 and 26 and will see the band touring extensively throughout the Midwest and Southeast as they continue their upwards ascent in the jamband music scene. A presale for tickets is currently underway with the general on sale date set for Friday, August 10 with VIP packages available for some shows.

    (Art by: Joe Winograd)

    This Fall Tour announcement comes on the heels of a busy summer for Dogs In A Pile that saw them headline multiple shows in Colorado, play several festivals, and jump on the road with Andy Frasco & The U.N. and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. The band will now continue to surge forward with more Colorado shows scheduled before ending the tour in the Southeast in late November. They’re scheduled to play Asheville NC’s Salvage Station on November 19, Nashville TN’s Basement East on November 21, and the show at Atlanta GA’s Terminal West on November 22 is set to be the tour closer.

    As a burgeoning musical act beginning to gain nationwide notoriety, Dogs In A Pile is making a conscious effort to develop their fan base and build a unique culture around the band by organizing pre-show meetups for their beloved fanbase, the Dog Pound. So far, significant gatherings have occurred in cities like their hometown of Asbury Park, Denver (CO), Vail (CO), Austin (TX), and Woodstock (NY). A running schedule of future meetups can be found at dogsinapileofficial.com/dogpound.

    Dogs In A Pile at The Mishawaka in Bellvue, CO on June 19, 2024 (Photo: Joe Lugo)

    In addition to adding to their busy 2024 tour schedule, the band has also made a concerted effort this year to significantly bolster their YouTube channel with video livestreams and archival full-show releases. Consistent soundboard releases have accompanied their video efforts and most often have appeared on trusted streaming platforms nugs.net and Bandcamp within 24-hours of a show ending.

    See the full listing of Dogs In A Pile Fall Tour dates below and for tickets and to and learn more, visit dogs-tour.com.

    DOGS IN A PILE FALL TOUR

    10/25 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
    10/26 – Philadelphia, PA – Brooklyn Bowl Philadelphia
    10/29 – St. Louis, MO – Atomic Cowboy
    10/31 – Oklahoma City, OK – Beer City Music Hall
    11/1 – Dallas, TX – Deep Ellum Art Co.
    11/2 – Dallas, TX – Deep Ellum Art Co.
    11/6 – Buena Vista, CO – Surf Hotel
    11/8 – Fort Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre
    11/9 – Boulder, CO – Fox Theatre

    11/12 – Omaha, NE – Slowdown
    11/13 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line
    11/15 – Milwaukee, WI – Vivarium
    11/16 – Chicago, IL – Chop Shop
    11/17 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Stache
    11/19 – Asheville, NC – Salvage Station
    11/21 – Nashville, TN – Basement East
    11/22 – Atlanta, GA – Terminal West

  • In Focus: Alive at 5 with Galactic and Hilltop

    On a hot August 1st evening at Albany’s Jennings Landing, funk outfit Galactic closed out this year’s Alive at 5 summer concert series with a performance that was out of this world.

    Galactic , Alive at 5

    Galactic, originating from New Orleans, has been a powerhouse in the funk and jazz scenes since 1994, known for their electrifying live performances and eclectic sound. Their unique blend of funk, jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music, combined with Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph’s powerful vocals, creates an irresistible groove.

    Albany-based band Hilltop opened the show, getting the crowd in the mood to groove with their lively performance. Their infectious energy set the tone for the night, building excitement and getting people vibing to the music.

    Galactic took the stage next. Between singer Anjelika “Jelly” Joseph’s undeniable stage presence and the band’s exceptional musicianship, the show was a masterclass in funk.  Highlights of the night included Jelly’s powerful rendition of “Right On,” Glen D. Andrews’ soulful “You Don’t Know,” and the crowd-pleasing “Crazyhorse Mongoose.” 

    Glen D. Andrews performing "You Don't Know" with Galactic
    Glen D. Andrews performing “You Don’t Know”

    The crowd, enthusiastic about enjoying the summer to its fullest, volleyed beach balls back and forth, while jet skis and boats passed by on the Hudson River, providing an exceptionally fun, summery backdrop. Galactic continues their tour, now heading west this summer.

    Setlist: Here Comes The Funky Man, Right On, Making it Better, You Don’t Know Feat. Glen D. Andrews, Go Down, Something’s Wrong, People, Lady Liberty, Qualified, Heart For Steel, Crazyhorse Mongoose, Never Called You Crazy, Yes We Can, Dolla Diva, Compared To What

    Be sure to check out Albany’s Jazz Fest Sept. 14th at Jenning’s Landing, featuring Roosevelt Collier, Nate Smith and many more.

  • Boy Jr. to Release New single “Still Be Friends”

    Rochester-based alt-pop artist Boy Jr. will release a new single titled “Still Be Friends” on August 7th. This single comes in the leadup to Boy Jr.’s third LP I Love Getting Dumped releasing in late 2024. 

    Boy Jr.

    Boy Jr. is the musical project of Ariel Allen-Lubman from Rochester. Lubman has used their professional musical training to make a versatile, genre-crossing brand of DIY pop. Through a mix of bedroom pop, indie, and hyperpop, Boy Jr. creates a sound that is equally experimental and catchy. 

    Boy Jr. emerged onto the music scene with their 2020 debut Starter Pack. Lo-Fi rock tracks like “Just Wanna Go To Bed” drive the album. On these tracks, Boy Jr. took Strokes-esque indie rock and infused it with youthful oddball energy. The album also features Allen-Lubman’s takes on some classic tracks. Standout covers include a distorted electronic version of Tears For Fears’ “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” and a downtempo minimalist take on the Strokes’ “Last Nite.” 

    Their second album Pay Attention to Mee marked a drastic change in sound. On this record, Boy Jr. leaned more heavily into pop and electronic elements. Bubbly synths and a groovy bass line propel standout track “Meet Me In The Middle.” Despite these new pop flourishes, the record still retains some of the distorted edge of Boy Jr.’s debut. As their first two records show, Boy Jr. defies genre, and makes music that could only be defined as … well Boy Jr.  

    Just prior to their new release, Boy Jr. released their album’s lead single “Bullying Myself.” The track continues Boy Jr’s trend of musical experimentation, blending a funky bassline with hyperpop synths throughout. These elements help back up Allen-Lubman’s vocals discussing being too hard on yourself. They sing on the pre chorus “I’ve been bullying myself. Think I need a little help. I’ve become my own worst enemy.”

    “This is a song to listen to when you are fed up with how mean you’ve been treating yourself. I find myself repeating a lot of the same unkind thoughts when I’m going through something, but if anyone ever said these things to me or a friend, I’d be pissed! So instead of letting it rot on the inside, I’m airing it out and releasing it outside.”

    – Boy Jr.

    Instrumental flourishes build on these lyrics making the track a true alt-pop anthem. Whether it’s the group vocals during the chorus, or distorted staccato guitar solo immediately after, each new element aids in the song’s atmosphere. With other artists, the disparate musical elements might sound out of place, but for Boy Jr., they feel surprisingly natural. One standout part of the track is the electronic breakdown towards the end, with the track growing more and more distorted. This pop experimentation recalls some of the greatest albums of the decade, like Charli XCX’s How I’m Feeling Now. 

    Boy Jr.

    Boy Jr. has returned following the June 26th release of “Bullying Myself,” with their second single, titled “Still Be Friends.” This track is much more toned down than its predecessor, building off a repeated electronic loop. This loop, while relaxed, is still engaging, with snappy percussion and a groovy electronic bassline driving the track forward. Boy Jr. continues their lyrical explorations on this track, discussing the aftermath of a relationship. 

    Unlike many songs discussing the topic, Boy Jr. acknowledges that they were the bad guy in the situation. They sing “I crushed all your trust, pulverized your hopes into dust, but I hope we can still be friends.” The track grows increasingly satirical, with the narrator’s wrongdoings getting more and more severe. The reasons for the breakup turn into crashing a car into an ex’s house and stealing their money, making the plea to be friends more ridiculous. In all this track is really catchy, and uses its satirical lyrics to strip down the complicated topic of breaking up with someone.

    These tracks come in the leadup to Boy Jr.’s new album I Love Getting Dumped, which will release in late 2024. For more information on Boy Jr. and their releases, visit their Bandcamp here.